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Tag Archives: paris life

In 2013 I packed up my apartment and belongings to move to Paris. The original plan was three months. I arrived in Paris in the cold winter months but I quickly knew I wanted to stay longer. After my three months was over I left for home… I cried the whole plane ride. I did not want to leave but without a Visa I couldn’t stay longer. I headed back to Chicago to plan my next trip. Three months turned into three years of a nomadic life. Traveling between Paris and the States.

It was hard and sometimes stressful but I didn’t want to give up the chance to be back in Paris. Relationships and friendships were difficult because I was always on the move. Over the years I created a great network of friends in Paris. They were a group of creative minds that understood the Paris expat life.

After three years and encouragement from my family I decided to put down roots back in Chicago. It was one of the hardest decisions. Paris had become my comfort zone and I didn’t want to give it up. I moved back and ended up giving away most of what was in storage. I was a different person now and those “things” didn’t matter anymore. I reached out on instagram about the word “home” and how it was a new word as I hadn’t had a place to call home in three years. The response was overwhelming. So many people from around the world had similar experiences to mine. They were homesick for Paris just as much as I was. As I settled back into life in the States I realized how much of my life was still Parisian. The way I dressed, grocery shopped, cooked, and decorated was all Parisian. So in an effort to cure my homesickness I decided to launch a blog called Every Day Parisian. The lifestyle blog will cover everything from books, recipes, style tips, and for those visiting Paris a guide on places to eat/sleep/shop. Since the idea was something that came from you I want it to involve the community. I already have a great team of expats that are ready to contribute and share their stories with you. I am so proud to announce Every Day Parisian

This was my first blog and I started back in 2011 which is crazy to think so much has happened since then. I wouldn’t be here without your support over all these years! Thank you so much for everything. Your opinion matters the most. I would love to know what you think of the new site! www.everydayparisian.com

This year I came close to Christmas in Paris. Unfortunately my business requires my presence in the States during this time so I literally left the very last day I could. I had a show early in November at the Lycée Francais in Chicago. I love supporting this school every year and couldn’t think of a better way to transition back to the States. Thankfully Paris starts getting ready with holiday decorations come November 1st. Since I was in Paris until the 7th it was crunch time walking around the city and see what had already been put up. Sadly, the lights were strung on the streets but they didn’t turn on until much later in the month. One of these days I will get there! Here are a few photos of the festivities beginning in my favorite city.

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Sundays in Paris are made for long walks and exploring courtyards after a coffee and croissant in the Marais and visit to the Bastille market of course. Currently I am day dreaming about being back in my favorite city while working on a few Paris themed projects. Summer shows are just a few weeks away so stay tuned for my schedule.

It finally feels like Summer in Chicago. Almost over night the temperature increased about 30 degrees and everyone is out and about. Tables line the streets and al fresco dining has begun. Summer in Chicago is the best time of the year. Its what Chicagoans look forward most especially after such a brutal winter. I have been editing images for the last couple of days while I work on a project and I can’t help but feel homesick for Paris…

It certainly doesn’t feel like May with the weather we are having in Chicago. Spring should be popping in the next week or so. I am looking forward to walking my neighborhood and having the streets lined with blossoms. Here is Paris during the magic hour walking towards the eiffel tower.

Paris during the magic hour

I loved this article about Paris Solo. My first trip solo was to Paris and I am grateful I had the courage to go four years ago.

To sum up this Monday it would be with rain, cafes, black and white. The day started out with a little sun and it seemed hopeful until the rain set in and stayed most of the day. I have been working on a cafe black and white series you will start to see in the first photo. A big thank you to Costume Cafe today for keeping me warm and dry. If you have the chance to check them out I highly recommend them!